Rice Crisis Escalates: Japan Minister Steps Down Over Controversial Remark

Minister Misstep

Taku Eto, Japan’s Agriculture Minister, joked about never buying rice due to gifts from supporters. The remark sparked public outrage.

Public Backlash

With rice prices doubling over the past year, Eto’s comment was seen as insensitive during a cost-of-living crisis.

Resignation Amid Pressure

Facing a potential no-confidence motion, Eto apologized and resigned, dealing a blow to Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s government.

Supply and Demand Imbalance

Economist Kunio Nishikawa, an expert in farming policies, says the crisis happened because the government made mistakes. They thought people would buy less rice and that there was more rice available than there really was. Nishikawa, who has helped with farming issues for years, says these mistakes made the shortage worse and caused prices to go up.

linkedin.com

Historical Sensitivity

Rice is deeply important in Japan, linked to tradition and culture. Past shortages, like the 1918 crisis, triggered riots and political unrest. This history highlights why any disruption in rice supply can lead to significant social and political consequences today.